Tips for Networking at the Internship Fair

Use this opportunity to meet organizational representatives who want to talk to you about their internship opportunities. The relaxed “open house” format makes it easy to ask questions, identify internship openings, and secure an interview. Use these tips to make the most of the Internship Fair:

Expand Your Focus

Approach employers that appear unrelated to your major. Technical companies offer non-technical positions, and vice-versa. A technical company may have openings in human resources, marketing, public relations or accounting. Employers often seek candidates with a strong liberal arts background.

Make A Strong First Impression

When meeting recruiters communicate with confidence – make eye contact, introduce yourself, offer a firm handshake, and be ready to interact.

Demonstrate an Interest Through Questions

Use questions to increase your knowledge of the organization and its internships. For example:

What types of internships does your organization offer?

What do you look for in applicants?

What makes interns successful in your organization?

Highlight Your Strengths

Discuss what you do well, and what you would like to do in an internship. Include clear, concise examples to demonstrate your strengths.

If You’re Interested, Initiate the Process

If you have your resume, offer it to the employer. If you don't have your resume, offer to send it. If the employer only accepts resumes online, ask if any special notes are needed to call your application to the attention of the recruiter.

Follow Up

Ask the representative for a business card. Follow up with a thank-you note or email within 24 hours. Be sure to express your interest in securing an internship. Make a phone call if you're especially interested.